How Siegfried Was Betrayed, XXXVI–XLI

"Now that we're free from foemen, and in firm peace abide, Hence to the Wask forest a-hunting let us ride, To chase the bears and wild swine, as oft I've done of yore." The faithless, murderous Hagan had counsell'd this before.

"To all my guests and kinsmen it straight announc'd shall be, I mean to start full early; whoe'er would ride with me, Must forthwith make him ready; whoe'er would here abide, Let him amuse the ladies; with both I'm satisfied."

Then courteously made answer Siegfried the stout and strong, "If you're inclined for hunting, gladly will I along. So lend me but a huntsman and a good brach or two, And I into the forest will find my way like you."

"If one will not suffice you," the fraudful king replied, "I'll lend you four good huntsmen, who know the forest wide, And every track soever where the wild beasts roam. You'll never, with their guidance, come empty-handed home."

Thence to his gentle lady rode off the warrior bold. Quick to the king had Hagan the baleful tidings told, How he would surely trap him, the champion frank and free. Never was such foul treason, nor ever more will be.

When now was laid the death-plot by that base traitor pair, The rest then all consented. Gernot and Giselher Neither would join the hunting; I know not through what fear Or spite they warn'd not Siegfried; soon paid they for it dear.